Wind Energy is a key part of America's approach to energy independence. As our Nation shifts to renewable energy production to replace carbon-based fuels, the wind energy industry is rapidly expanding. While wind power has many advantages over other sources of energy, if not sited and operated with thoughtful planning, the rotating turbines kill birds and bats and construction of the facilities can destroy natural areas that provide habitat.

With expansion of the wind energy industry, wildlife agencies recognized the need for a consistent and systemic process to evaluate and address the potential impacts of wind energy projects on wildlife and their habitats. The Service developed the Voluntary Land Based Wind Energy Guidelines to meet this need.

Only by working together can we, collectively,
ensure that development of this "clean" and "green"
energy source does not replace one set of environmental problems with another.